the trail was completely covered in 1-3 feet of snow. we carved a trail through all the way up to the lake, so if you can get to the trailhead w/ 4wd & snowtires you can now get to the snow-covered lake if you're determined! it was beautiful up there.

This past week saw several inches of fresh snow dropped above 2,000 feet. I managed to drive to the junction with NF 8420 without big issue—roads were passable but definitely required some care. If you have snow tires, put them on.

From the junction I hiked up to the summer trailhead and decided to push beyond it. The trail had less snow than the surrounding terrain, which made for easier travel than expected.

The waterfall was absolutely stunning—but watch out for slippery spots. The water level made it clear that continuing to Cora Lake wasn't going to happen safely, so I turned around there.

A spontaneous trip up to Cora Lake via the Big Creek Trailhead of Forest Service Road 8420. Accessing from this trailhead makes Cora a pretty quick trip. My dog and I ended up doing just a hair over 3 miles but that’s because we ended up cruising around the lake. Trail was in excellent shape and the double creek crossings were an absolute breeze. You can easily cross without getting your feet wet. Much to my surprise, still some very ripe berries, at least in patches as soon as you see the lake. Even spotted a couple forest grouse. Any vehicle can make the drive up. Forest Service Road 84 has plenty of potholes but take your time and you’ll be fine. Forest Service Road 8420 was relatively smooth and much less potholes. Also saw a sign posted stating High Rock Lookout is still closed. I expect in a couple weeks, this area will have a blanket of snow. Happy Trails!

I really need to get a different car if I'm going to keep driving forest roads like FR84... my Camry is willing but feels the abuse! Oh, those potholes! We saw a bunch of people with buckets along the way; perhaps looking for mushrooms?

The first part of Big Creek Trail 252 (from the north TH) is riddled with loose rocks and rutted, but it soon improves. The crossings of Big Creek were easy this time of year, providing perfect mid-stream viewpoints for the falls. The lake was placid and lovely on an unseasonably warm day.

We hiked above the lake to the high point of Big Creek Trail 252 where we rested and enjoyed a snack, while talking to a young backpacker.

Another trip report mentioned the baby frogs. There were still quite a few of the adorable creatures, but not so many that we worried we were stepping on them.

We saw a few motorbike tracks along the trail, which blew my mind! The trail is rough and steep, and parts of it have a serious side-slope. I'll stick with my boots, thank you!

Hiked from Big Creek TH past Cora Falls and Cora Lake then onto Granite and Bertha May lakes. It was over 9 miles RT and 2300+ gain. No trees down, clear trail, but occasional deep ruts which I am guessing are from dirt bikes. Big Creek was low so it was fairly easy to keep dry feet while crossing but can see it being a challenge after a heavy rain. It was a nice hike with lots of toads still at the lake and all along the trail. The road to TH has lots of pot holes but manageable if going slow.